Visit Places in Karnataka Centering Hassan

Hassan is district HQ of Hassan district and is the junction to visit Halebid, Belur and Shravanabelgola.

Leaving from Mysore, trains go to Hassan in 3 hours and then to Arsikere. Belur-Halebid-Shravanbelgola tourists should take a bus from Mysore to Hassan(3hours). Tourists of Hospet or Hampi may go by train from Hassan via Arsikere/Harihar.

Bus stand is situated at the heart of the city. You will get direct bus from Hassan to 340 km away Hospet at 8-30 am and 6-00 pm via Chikmagalur/ Shimoga/Harihar (10 hours journey).

In absence of direct bus from Hassan, you may break your journey at Shimoga or Harihar, and from there by another bus to Hospet or Hampi. Buses are available every hour from here. Besides this, there is hourly day-night bus service from Hassan to (115 km) Mysore, (187 km) Bangalore and (43 km) Arsikere, (160 km) Mangalore. At 8-15am Ooty-bound bus via Mysore, at 8-00 pm Madurai-bound bus via Ooty/Coimbatore and via Arsikere/Yog Falls/Karwar to Panaji and via Arsikere/ Hubli to Panaji (alternative route). Buses ply from Hassan to different directions of the state and neighbouring states.This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel



From Hassan Belur is 34 km, Halebid is 39 km and Shravanabelgola is 52 km. Frequent bus services to these places are available from Hassan. It is convenient to reach Belur by bus from Hassan and from Belur to Halebid (16km) by bus or tempo. From Halebid comeback to Hassan for launch and start for Shravanabelgola by bus at 2-00 pm. Bus service to Shravana¬belgola is very infrequent. From Shravanabelgola you can go to Mysore also by bus. Direct bus is available from Shravanabelgola lo Mysore, Arsikere, Bangalore and Hassan. In case of non-availabality of direct bus, break journey at Channarayapatna 8 km from Shravana¬belgola and from there change the bus for Hassan. And the last bus from Belur starts at 11-00 pm and from Halebid at 7-45 pm to Hassan. Night bus service is available for Mangalore from Hassan via Mysore, Bangalore, Simoga, Harihar, Hospet, Mercara and Arsikere.

More than 20 buses ply day and night from Hassan to Mysore and Bangalore. You can also travel on the route Hassan via Hubli (9 hrs) to Panaji (6 hrs). And Hassan to Sringeri (4 hrs), Sagar (5 hrs), Yog (1 hr), Karwar (6 hrs), Panaji (4 hrs) with breaks to cover the whole route. You may break your journey at different places. Bus reaches to the Western Ghat region through mountain and forest tracts. Unforgettable is the landscape, so is the journey. Hotels are available throughout the way.

Name of the place and route number of bus are all in Kannada language, you will find no other language in the bus. Local people hate Hindi. English is unintelligible to most of them. Though the language is a bar, the people are friendly.

If you do not have enough time you may visit the Belur-Halebid-Shravanabelgola temples by conducted tour from Mysore or Bangalore. As the journey lo these places cover hundreds of kilometres, it takes a long time. But there are many arrangements from Bangalore throughout the year to visit these places. Still, tourists from Bangalore do not get enough rime to tour these places. But tourists from Mysore get a little more time. So, tourists should make a separate visit and staying one night at Hassan visit the trio by service bus or auto. They may visit the trio from Hassan also.This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel

Accommodation in Hassan:
Hassan: Pincode -573201, STD code: 08172.

Vaishnavi Lodging, Harsha Mahal Road, Ph: 267413.
Hotel Apurva, Park Rd. Ph: 267513.
Hassan Ashok, Ph: 22885208.
Hotel Amblee Palika. Race Course Rd-573201, Ph: 266307
Hotel Suvarna Regency,Ph:264006.
MahaveerHotel, B M Rd, near Narasimharaja Circle, Ph: 268885;
Hotel Abhiruchi, B M Rd. Ph: 268885.
Inspection Bungalow of PWD, Travellers' Bungalow and Railway Retiring Room are also available. You may contact Tourist Office of the State Govt opposite to Hotel Hassan Ashok.

For accommodation Vaisltnavi, Harsha and Satyaprakash hotels are good.

Food in Hassan:

There are a number of food joints in Hassan. Adjacent to Satyaprakash Santhalia, Malnika of Amblee Palika, New Mongala and Varani are famous for their taste and fair rates. For north Indian and Chinese food Abhiruchi and for non-vegetarian dishes Hotel New Star are good choices. Bom mutton and beat are available at New Star.

This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel

Bandipur National Park Tiger Reserve

Bandipur National Park Tiger Reserve at an altitude of 1022 to 1450 meter on Nilgiri Hills covered by sandal, mehagani, ablus, teak, bamboo and deodar trees sprawling over 874.20 sq km on Mysore-Ooty highway. This Park is adjacent to Mudumalai of Tamilnadu and Wynad of Kerala. The river Mayar demarcates the boundary between the two. Old Venugopal Wildlife Park has been divided by the dam on Kabini river. To the south of Kabini is Bandipur and to the north is Nagharhole National Park. Bandipur was the hunting ground of the Mysore kings and in 1931 it was developed covering an area of 90 sq km. In 1941, it was named as Venugopal Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary was also expanded from 90 to 800 sq km. In 1973 according to the plan of WWF it was crowned as an Indian Tiger Project. Bandipur is also a member of the earliest Tiger-9 Project. According to the 1997 Census, there were 75 tigers in Bandipur. Approximately 2000 elephants, leopards, sambar, bison, four-horned antelope, gaur and different species of deer; panther, bear and wild dogs are also inhabitant this place. Several varieties of peacocks, maina, dhanesh and other birds make their homes among the teaks, shimul, sandal, jamun and rosewood trees.This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel

How to reach Bandipur national park:

Bandipur is on the Mysore-Ooty highway, 76 km to the south of Mysore and 82 km to the north of Ooty. It takes 2 ½ hours to reach here from both Mysore or, Ooty. Nearly a dozen buses are going to Mysore-Ooty-Mysore via Bandipur Forest Reception Centre. On the way, sitting in the bus you may come across herd of elephants.

When to visit Bandipur National Park:

Though Nov to May is the tourist season, Jan-Feb is better. Temperature: 30°C in summer and around 18°C in winter. Average rainfall: 1000 mm.
This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel

Tour arrangement to Bandipur Sanctuary:

For touring Bandipur Sanctuary, and booking of cars from the forest department and their seven cottages, write 10 days in advance to Field Director, Project Tiger, Aranya Bhavan, Ashokpuram, Mysore-570008 Ph: (0821) 2520901.or else, while in Mysore you can go to the Forest Office which is at the south suburban area of the city, by rickshaw or by bus of Rt 61. You can also write to Assistant Director, Bandipur NP, Bandipur—571318. For taking photographs permission from the authorities has to be obtained beforehand.

Similarly, for the booking of two cottages or for information about any forest in Karnataka, you have to write to the Chief Warden, Wildlife, Aranya Bhavan, 18th Cross, Malleswaram, Bangalore— 560003. Ph: 23341993 or, Jungle Lodges & Resorts Ltd, 2nd floor, Shrungar Shopping Centre, M G Rd, Bangalore—560001, Ph: 25597025, Fax : 080-25586163.

For accommodation, there are nine cottages of forest department with 18 rooms and dormitory. Their names are Gajendra, Harini, Chittal, Papeeha, Kokila, Vanashree, Yanasuma, Kuteera and Mayura Lodge. Foods are also available at these lodges. This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel

You can see deer or other wild animals from the window of these cottages. Documentary films on wildlife are shown at the Interpretation centre.

Forest department organize trips to the Tiger Project by jeep, bus or on elephants' back between 6-00 am 9-00 am and 4-00 pm 6-30 pm.

Photographs of wild beasts can be taken from the watch tower. Beware of monkeys while you observe the vast landscape from Gopal Swami Betta.

Venu Vihar Lodge on Himavat Gopalaswami Hill 20 km from here is also nice place to stay.

Nearby, there is KSTDC's Hotel Mayura Prakruti, Melkamanahalli, Post: Hangala, Gundlupet Taluk, near Bandipur, Ph: (0821) 2633001.

It is possible to travel Bandipur National Park and come back in one day either from Mysore or Ooty.

This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel

Shivasamudram and surrounding places – From Mysore or, Somnathpur

Shivasamudram deserves tourists' attention for its extraordinary vast natural landscape and number of waterfalls. It is situated on the border of Karnataka and Tamilnadu surrounded by forests and mountains. There are also two temples, one of Lord Shiva and the other of Lord Vishnu or Ranganath in eternal sleep.

It is 37 km from Somnathpur, 77 km from Mysore and 120 km from Bangalore. You can cover the whole tour by bus. Here Cauveri bifurcates into two tributaries Gaganchukki and Barachukki flowing down like a falls from a height of 91 meters. In monsoon the flow is awesome. Shivasamudram is shaped like an island. You may hear the roaring wild animals time to time here, even if you can't see them. With permission you may also visit Shimsa Hydro Power Plant 1.5 Km from here, the first of its kind (1902) in Asia.This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel


Accommodation at Shivasamudram

Arrangement for accommodation can be available at Rest house and Inspection Bungalow; Advance Booking: EE, Electrical Division, Shimsapur.

Other Places to see around

Enthusiasts may visit the 16th century Nanjanguda Shiva Temple on the bank of Kapili river 18 km from Mysore. This 110 meter long temple is built on 147 pillars.

The three-day Car Festival in March is famous throughout the south.
This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel


On this way, 35 km to the south is Gundalupet. From there you can go to Bandipur and Mudumalai. Biligirirangna Hills or BR Hills is 102 km from Mysore and 48 km from Chamraja Nagore by bus. The hill is named after Biligiri Rangnath Swami Temple. Tourists from all over country flock here for the chariot-festival in January and April. Travellers Bungalow is there for accommodation.

Temples of Hoysal era are scattered all over the Manda district The 12th century Cheluvaraya-Swami Temple is at Melcote 30 km to the north of Mysore is famous for its Bhairamude festival during March-April. Several exhibits of the Hoysal era are found on the bank of the Thiru malasagar Lake. The 12th century Soumya Keshab Temple is situated at Nagamangalaya to the north of Melcote.

To the west there are various 13th century temples. Exceptional image of Shiva with 16 hands in the pose of Tandava dance, you can see at Mallikarjun Temple of Hoysala style at Basaralu (Sadar district) 25 km to the north of Mandar.

Tibetan refugee colony at Bylakuppe, 80 km to the west of Mysore, the Rubguelling, meaning good progress place, a colony of 15 villages, is worth visiting. Two monasteries and a carpet factory are here. Handicrafts are on sale. No accommodation is available but in restaurants you can enjoy Tibetian meals.

This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel

Places to see around Srirangapatna – Somnathpur, Talkad

Somnathpur

Somnathpur is famous for Prasanna Chenna-keshab Temple. On the star-shaped high podium there are three temples or Trikootchala side by side. Temple of Chennakeshab is in the middle of a rectangular courtyard (70x55 meters). In the temple different gods are placed in 64 alcoves. To the right there is Janardan and to the left Venugopal. In the absence of the main idol, a new image of Lord Chennakeshab has been established. A 6ft image of Vishnu with conch, wheel, club and lotus in four hands is beautiful.. Venugopal or Sree Krishna can be seen with a flute in his hand and leaning on a tree.

In the golden period of Hoysal dynasty, General Soma of king Narasimha III of Dwar Samudra set up a new village after his own name and built this temple. It is one of the classic examples of the erstwhile architecture. This is yet another major work of the renowned sculptor Yabanacharya. The height of the temple is 10 meters and it was built without using any cement.This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel


Sukhnasi, the Biman of the temple (hall-made of pillars) and Nabaranga are all highly decorated. On the wall, Lakshmi and Narayan on Garuda's back, Indra and his wife Sachidevi on Oirabat (elephant), dance of Ganesh and other animals, hunters, dancers and stories from Ramayana and Mahabharata are depicted finely. Images of Vishnu's ten incarnations are also found. Rows of elephants, symbolising power and stability; horses, symbolizing speed; rows of ducks, design of trellis are excellent.

While you are visiting Karnataka, don’t miss this beautiful temple. This temple is still intact and very nicely maintained. Temple remains open from 9-00 am to 05 00 pm.

How to reach Somnathpur:

Somnathpur is 26 km from Srirangapatna by bus; 40 km from Mysore (crossing Cauvery), 121 km from Bangalore and 37 km from Shivasamudram. Buses are available from each place.

For accommodation, there is Hotel Mayura Keshav of Karnataka Tourism, adjacent to the temple.This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel


Talkad:

Enthusiasts may tour Talkad, the old capital of Ganga and Chola dynasties situated 30 km to the South East of Somnathpur on the way to Shivasamudram by bus. There are hundreds of anecdotes about Talkad, which is on the left bank of Cauveri with six temples in Dravidian style. Carved in 1360 AD on granite stone, there are images Lord Shiva in various poses in Baidyeswar Shiva Temple. In front of the temple two devotees of Lord Shiva, Tala and Kadu, the two door-keeper brothers who were blessed of immortality by Lord Shiva, remind the glory of the golden age of the dynasty. The name Talkad is derived from the names, Tala and Kadu. These brothers found the image of Lord Shiva while they were clearing the jungle. Another strange event is the changing color of the linga image of Pataleswar. It becomes red in the morning, yellowish brown in the afternoon and white in the evening. It is equally strange that there are other temples but these are buried under sand. Once in every 12 years these temples are brought out on the eve of the Panchalinga festival in the month of Kartick (mid Oct to mid Nov).
This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel

Places to see around Srirangapatna - Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary :
4 km to the South East of Srirangapatna, the thittu, or bird sanctuary, was built in 1975 AD for the bird lovers. The area of the sanctuary is 0.67 sq km surrounded by the Cauveri river. Migratory birds come and build nests here on the 750 meter high island from June to Nov. Boating in the lake will be a memorable experience . While on boat, one can see variety of birds. You can see egret, spoonbill, heron, open bill stork, white ibis and others species. Crocodiles are also there in the lake.


How to reach Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary
See this place by conducted tour or hire auto or tonga from Srirangapatna on contract basis. Otherwise, directly from Mysore by bus (route 126) reach Srirangapatna market and from there by auto or tonga carry on to Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary.

Accommodation at Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary
For accommodation, contact Karnataka Tourism for the Riverside Cottages in Ranganthittu.

This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel

Srirangapatna - A historical place near Mysore

History of Srirangapatna

Srirangapatna is a 5x1 km wide island surrounded by two tributaries of Cauvery, 124 km away from Bangalore and 15 km to the North East of Mysore on Mysore-Bangalore Highway. The king of Vijayanagar built a fort here in 1454AD. After a long period of 150 yrs when the last king of Vijayanagar empire handed over the fort to the Wadyar king of Mysore, the capital of Mysore was shifted to Srirangapatna (1610-1761 AD). Hyder Ali ousted the Marathas in 1759 and dethroned the Wadyar king in 1761 to become the ruler of Srirangapatna. However, Hyder's son Tipu Sultan (born in 1750 and his mother was a Hindu) made an encloser around Srirangapatna by wall and ditch. Preventing repeated attacks by the British, French, Nizam of Hyderabad and the Marathas, the Hero of the Sword, Tipu Sultan—Tiger of Mysore was killed by the British after a reign of 17 yrs. It was Colonel Arthur Wellesley of East India Company who was responsible for Tipu's murder. According to his plan a traitor opened the water gate and the British force entered easily. Srirangapatna went under British rule on 4 May, 1799. And on 6 May, 1799, Wellesley became the governor of Srirangapatna. Though much of Srirangapatna was destroyed in the war, the North Western part of the fort, the dream child of Hyder Ali and Tipu, still exists as a symbol of courage and independence. Rampart, Dariya Daulat, Minar, Juma Mosque, dungeon or underground cell, Museum, Gangadhareswar of the 16th century, Narsimha Temple of the 17th century and Sriranganathswami, all remind of the past.

This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel


Places to see in Srirangapatna


The Tomb of Tipu is located at the northern gate of the fort (right side of the entrance). Opens 8-00 am to 1-00 pm and 4-00 pm to 8-00 pm.

Sriranganathswami Temple

Sriranganathswami Temple was built in 894 AD by governor Thirumalayar of the Ganga kings.The Hoysal and Vijayanagar kings renovated the temple several times. The great Vaishnav philosopher Ramanuja after leaving Cholas' Tamilandu in 1133 came here to settle. In course of time the name of the place became familiar as Srirangapatna which was derived from Sriranganathswami. There is a huge image of Lord Vishnu made of black stone. Here, Vishnu is in slumber. The five-storey Gopuram in South Indian style is also a feature of the temple. Different incarnations of Vishnu are depicted in the temple.
The decorated, well sculptured chariot in front of the temple was donated by Hyder Ali. Tipu himself was also a devotee of Sriranganath. Rathyatra and a fair are held every year on the occasion of Rathsaptami in the month of Magh (December) . Nearby, there is a Shiva Temple.

St Philomena church
In Srirangapatna there is St Philomena church, built by the Mysore king in 1933. It is 165 ft high and the third largest church in India.

Dariya Daulat Bag
Dariya Daulat Bag (the treasure of river), a beautiful flower garden encircled by the river Cauvery 1 km to the east of the fort, was established in 1784 in Parsian style. In the midst of this garden, there was the summer palace of Tipu, built in Indo-Serasenic style. This teak wooden palace is a historical souvenir of Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan. Sword, blood stained clothes and other personal belongings are kept in the palace. British Colonel Arthur Wellesley also stayed here for a period. Though faded out, the Parsian miniature frescos on French-British-Mysore war remind the history. On the western wall, frescos of Tipu and Hyder Ali, engaged in the battle of 1780 against British; on the eastern wall, Tipu as a host to the kings of neighbouring states are notable paintings. There is also a museum on the 1st floor.

This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel

Jamia-e-Tipu Masjid
3 km to the east of Dariya Daulat, under the open sky there is the Gambuj (or Minar) Jamia-e-Tipu Masjid (mosque), supported by 36 pillars, made of black stone. Engraved on cream coloured wood with ivory carved design, this graveyard or tomb of Tipu is really beautiful. The wall of this tomb is sheathed in tiger skin. War between Tipu (supported by the French) and the British, lifestyle of the Nawabs are depicted in the fresco paintings by the British soldiers. In the east is buried the mother of Tipu, and in the west Tipu himself. This tomb was built by Tipu in 1784 as a graveyard or tomb of his father Hyder Ali. With the personal collections of Tipu a museum is thereon the 1st floor. Except Friday, it remains open from 9-00 am to 5-00 pm. Climbing up the minaret (of 200 steps) of Jumma Mosque, built in 1784, you see the ruins of the fort or scenery of Srirangapatna. In the balcony of the hall, quotations from the Quran are depicted. And to the west there is mihrab.

How to reach Srirangapatna
Route No. 125 bus leaves from city bus stand in Mysore every hour. From Mysore there are trains at 6-00,6-45,8-05, 15-40, 16-20,18-05, 18-25, 23-30. It takes only 15 minutes to reach Srirangapatna and from here to Bangalore. There are buses on conducted tours; auto and tonga are available in the city.


Hotels / Accomodation at Srirangapatna

3 km from bus stand of the city, adjacent to temple, there is KSTDC's Hotel Mayura River View, Srirangapatna-571438, Dist Mandya, Ph: (08236) 652114, Food is available at the canteen.

PWD's Travellers Bungalow and Inspection Bungalow,

Amblee Holiday Resort Ph:(08236) 652326

Complete Travel information of Mysore

This article is originally published in Travel India and India Study Channel

Complete Travel information of Mysore

Mysore, at 770 meter from sea level, also called as city of palaces or, the city of sandalwood. Mysore is a very small and beautiful city by itself. Sandalwood products like incense sticks, sandal soap, sandal oil and furniture from sandalwood are manufactured plenty here and it is a form of cottage industry here. Fragrance of sandal oil is all over there in the city. Sandalwood products of Mysore are famous worldwide and regularly being exported from here.

There is another belief and that’s why Mysore is also known as the city of Dashera festival. The name is consequential from Mahishasur, the king of demons and Mysore was his kingdom. Mysore was then known as Mahismati or Mahishasurpura and in course of time the name became Mahishur.


Five royal palaces and a dozen of royal mansions are the prime attractions of Mysore. Mysore is the centre of performing arts, literature and culture. The city is 139 km from Bangalore and is linked by regular train and bus services.

The attraction of Mysore is more the tourist because centering Mysore one can travel many beautiful tourist spots of Southern India like Belur, Halebid, Shravanabelgola, Somnathpur and Kurg. A luxury train is going to be introduced from Mysore to Goa on Konkan Railway under the joint venture of East West Airways and Indian Railways. The network of bus services from the three bus stands of Mysore helps you to reach any remote point of the state or all southern states.

Conducted Tours available from Mysore:

KSTDC, Transport Wing, C/o Hotel Mayura Yatri Nivas, 2 Jhansi Lakshmi Bai Rd, Ph: 2423652 every day starts at 8-00 Hrs and comes back at 21 -00 Hrs after touring Mysore city.

Somnathpur, Srirangapatna and Brindavan Garden starts from Lali tamahal Palace. Schedule is the same as KSTDC.

KSTDC arranges tours to Belur, Halebid and Shravanabelgola every Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday. Starts at 7-30 Hrs and returns at 20-30 Hrs.

They also conduct tour every day to Ooty

KSTDC arranges tours to:

Jog waterfalls on 3-day package, for
5-day package Goa-Gokama-Jog,
3-day package for Mantralaya-Tungabhadra Dam-Hampi,
5-day package for North Kamataka,
and various others packages.

Though the best season to tour Mysore is October to March but it can be visited any time of the year due to its beautiful weather. Temperature in summer is 28°C and in winter 22°C. Average rainfall is 98 cm.


Little Historical background of Mysore:

Coming from Dwaraka in Gujarat at the end of the 14th century, two brothers Vijay and Krishna built their residence in today's Mysore. Overwhelmed by the chivalry of Vijay, the king of Mysore arranged his daughter's marriage with him and gifted him his empire. The new king Vijay Yadav became the ruler. Thus Wadyar dynasty was founded in Mysore. Till 1761 they ruled Mysore. They lost their empire after being defeated by Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan was also defeated by the British in the war of 1799. In 1947, Mysore became a part of the Indian Union.

Hotels at Mysore:
STD code: +91 821
Star hotels are situated on Jhansi Lakshmi Bai Rd and surrounding Central Bus Stand at Mysore.

KTDC's Ashok Lalitha Mahal Palace Hotel. Mysore-570011
Ph: 2470470, DB @ INR 6000: Suite @ INR 8500. •QualityInn

Southern Star. 13, Vinobha Road-5, Ph: 2426426, A/c DB @ INR 3500-4500; Suite @ INR 6000 - 8500.

Ramanashree Comforts Inn, L-43/A. Bangalore-Nilgiri Rd-1, Ph: 2522202 A/C DB @ INR 2295-2845; Suite @ INR 3245-3795.

Hotel Gayathri, Ph: 2425654. DCB @ INR 120 DB @ INR 250-450;
Hotel New Bishnu Bhavan, DB @ INR 200-350;
Hotel Chalukya, Ph: 2427197 DB @ INR 250-450;
Hotel Indra Bhavan, Ph: 2423933, DB @ INR 250-450

Hotel Ritz. Ph: 2422668, DB @ INR 400-550;
Mysore Hotel Complex, Ph: 2426217, DB @ INR 450-650 A/C DB @ INR 850;
Hotel Roopa Ph: 2443770, DB @ INR 450-850,
Hotel Maruti Palace Ph: 2429586, DB @ INR 450-650;
Sanjib Palace Hotel, Ph: 2448039, DB @ INR 350-600;
Sri Nandini Hotel Ph: 2447085, DB @ INR 350-550


Shopping at Mysore:

CauveryArts & Crafts Emporium, Sayaji Rao Road, Mysore.

Kamataka Government sells a variety of handicrafts like sandal oil, sandal soap, incense sticks, and artistic items from ivory, rose wood and sandal wood. Whether or not you intend to buy anything you should not miss to visit the shop. Except Sunday it remains open from 10-00 to 14-00 & 15-30 to 19-30.

Other reliable shops in Mysore

Craft Emporium, Vinobha Rd
Kamataka Silk Industry, R K R Circle.
Sri Lakshmi Fine Arts & Crafts, opposite the zoo.
KSIC's Silk Shop. KR circle and Indiranagar


Places to see in Mysore:

Mysore Palace

While entering the crafted and ornamented gate of the palace the gold gilted temple-dome on the left will amaze you. A row of temples of Hindu Gods like Bhubaneswari, Gayatri, Gopal-Krishnaswami, Nabagraha, Trinayaneswar and Barahaswami are present in the palace compund. The wood-built old palace was ruined by fire 1897. The present palace was designed in the by Henry Irwin. In 1897-1921 and was built for the 24th Wadyar king. At the enhance on the ground floor there is Gombe thotti or dolls museum, where Dashera Festival used to be held with these dolls. King's Howda (elephant-seat), ornamented by pure (24 carat) gold and battery-operated red-green signal system decorated by valuable stones are exhibited.

Inside the palace, there is an octagonal pavilion used to held marriage ceremonies. The walls of the room decorated with 26 panel paintings by four Indian painters and it took 15 yearrs to complete.

Brass pillars, chandelier, peacock engraved in coloured glass, floor made of mosaic tiles, the shape of which is like a peacock, chairs (made of silver) of Maharaja and Lord Mountbatten are the main attractions of Kalyan mandap.

Climbing up the marble steps you will find the Durbar Hall where there is the famous throne made of 280 kg gold and well decorated by precious stones is exhibited. This famous throne came to Mysore as a souvenir of King Wadyar's victory over Vijayanagar. Another opinion is that, this was a gift from the emperor Aurangzeb. Durbar Hall is enriched with attractive glasses, precious ivory and stone crafts. Walls decorated with expensive stones, door of solid silver, Byzantine mosaic floor, decorated ceiling made of mahogany wood with engraved images of Vishnu (10 incarnations), intricately designed pillars has made the Durbar hall exquisite . From the hall you can see Lalitha Mahal and Chamundi Hill.

Though it is small, the decorated Amba Villa or private durbar hall is also beautiful. The three doors of the private hall are also unique. The middle door is made of silver. The 10 incarnations of Vishnu are engraved on it too. There are also guards of the eight directions of the world. The small idol of Lord Krishna is also admirable. Coloured glass from Belgium, iron pillar from Glasgow, wooden ceiling, chandelier, decorated window, mosaic floor—all these have added to the attraction of the hall.

Oil paintings of the art gallery are also priceless. Beside these, a replica of the British crown, polished in gold, is kept in a glass case, sword of Tipu and Hyder Ali, tiger-nail of Shivaji, furniture made of sandalwood and ivory articles have made the palace inimitable.

Son of the ex-Maharaja lives in the back portion of the palace. He has opened a museum there.

The palace is illuminated on holidays and in the evenings during festivals (from 19-00 to 20-00). Entrance through the southern gate, open from 10-00 to 17-00.

Jagmohan Palace or Jaya Chamrajendra Art Gallery :

The palace was built in 1861 on the occasion of Krishnaraja Wadyar's marriage and in 1915 the palace was converted into a museum of antiques.

The collection of paintings, specially on the first floor S L Haldekar's painting of the 'Lady with the lamp' is superb. If you put off the lights in the room and walk towards the painting slowly, it seems that the lady is slowly approaching towards you with the lamp in her hand. The paintings of Ravi Verma, Nicolas Roerich and others are real treasures of the museum.

The collection of musical instruments deserves special mention. The unconventional parade-clock at the entrance is unique. The wooden Ganesh image on tortoise-back is remarkable.
Camera is not allowed inside. It is open from 8-00 am to 12-00 pm and 2-30 pm to 5-00 pm, It remains closed on Thursday and holidays.


Chamrajendra Zoological Garden :

Built in 1832, Mysore Zoo is an attractive tourist spot 3 km to the east of the palace. Near about 1500 animals including tiger, elephant, lion, birds and reptiles are presen in that zoo.

Except Friday it remains open from 8-00-11-30 and 14-00 to 18-00.
KSTDC has started a restaurant Maurya Rhino Kiosk, for the refreshment of tourists at zoo.

Lalita Mahal:

On the way to Chamundi, on the hilly slope, this Royal Guest House was built by Krishnaraja IV in 1930. Now it has been converted in lo a 5-star Hotel run by ITDC. Tourists may visit the palace after taking permission from the superintendent. The Italian marble steps of the dining hall of the Hotel are simply amazing.


Chamundi Hill :

Chamundi hill has a height of 1095 meter. The temple on the top of it was built by Krishnaraja Wadyar III, where a golden idol of goddess Chamundeswari (Durga) is worshipped. The architecture of the temple is also magnificent. On the top of the temple there is an image of Mahishasur. From the hill, the illuminated Mysore city and the surrounding scenery are nice view. The journey to the hill is also delightful. Midwayto the route of Chamundi hill, amonolithic statue of Nandi carved out of black granite engross the tourists.

Chamundi can be reached either by a packaged tour from the city or a direct bus (Route -101) from Mysore . From Chamundi, the last bus goes to the city is at 21-00 Hrs. Auto, taxies are also available.

The temple remains open from 6-00 Hrs to 12-00 Hrs & 17-00 Hrs to 20-00 Hrs.

The summer resort of royal family has now been converted into a Hotel. Hotel Rajendra Vilas Palace, Chamundi Hill - 570019, Ph: 2520690.


Other places apart from these worth visiting are Lokaranjan Mahal, Cheluvamba Mansion (Food Research Centre of Central Govt), Municipal office, Krishna Rajendra Hospital, Medical College Museum, Exhibition House, St Philomona Cathedral etc.

Though the sandal-oil factory (8 km from the city) is not included in conducted tour package, you may make a separate trip there. It is open for the visitors from 8-00 Hrs to 12-00 Hrs & 13-00 Hrs to 17-00 Hrs except Sundays and Thursdays.

With prior permission you may also visit (8-00 Hrs to16-30 Hrs, except Sundays) the silk factory. You can buy silk clothes and materials here. This factory is run by the government.

There is the Art & Archaeological Museum and Chamrajendra Technical Institute. Articles made of ivory, sandal wood and metals are being manufactured there.

Railway Museum near rail station is also unique place to visit. Saloon car of the queen including royal toiletries is a great attraction. Collections from 1888 of Indian Railways are exhibited in the museum. This museum remain open to all from 10-00 Hrs to 13-00 Hrs & 15-00 Hrs to 17-00 Hrs except Monday.

Folk Art Museum (Estd in 1928), with a collection of folk art of Kamataka is another place to visit. Open from 10-30 Hrs to 17-30 Hrs, except 2nd Saturdays and Sundays.

Enthusiastic tourists may visit the Sree Mahalingeswar Temple, 13 km from the city. A temple has been built as a replica of 800 yrs old Hoysala Temple. A new image of the god has been erected as the old one is ruined. Besides, Shivalinga, Ganesha and two-handed image of Durga are there in the temple. Bus, taxi and, auto are available from the city to visit this temple.


In Mysore, another thrilling experience is to join Kheda Operation. This is the technique of trapping of wild elephants. This operation is conducted by the governmentt in Korapur forest (55 km to the south of Mysore) will be a lifetime experience.

Jagmohan Art Gallery and Palace are two spots within walking distance from the bus stand and are not included in the conducted tour to save the time.


Brindavan Garden & Krishnarajasagar Barrage

A 3 km long 40 m high dam stands on Cauveri river 16 km from Srirangapatna, 22 km from Mysore, 28 km from Somnathpur and 153 km from Bangalore. The construction was started in 1911 and was completed in 1931. Envisaged by M. Bisheswaraiya, the dam was constructed with stone (without cement) to supply water to Simsa Hydro¬electric project of Shivasamudram round the year. Boating arrangement are also there and it is a nice picnic spot.

Designed in Mughal pattern, Brindavan Garden is built step by step from below the dam. Fountains, flower beds, topiary sail have made the environment beautiful and dreamy. In the evening the garden is illuminated and looks gorgeous.

Conducted tours is also there from Bangalore to see Brindavan Gardens.

Biligirirangan :

Biligiri means white mountains. It is 90 km from Mysore, adjacent to Keyatiiadebara Gudi or K-Gudi, in a 324 sq km evergreen forest at an altitude of 4000 ft.

the Biligiri - Rangaswamy Temple Sanctuary or, Biligirirangan was established in 1974. Tiger, elephant, gaur, leopard, chital, shambar and various other species of wild animals inhabit in this Sanctuary. There are variety of birds.

Package tour visitors stay here at the tents (double bed) of B R hills wildlife adventure resorts Ph: + 91 8226 296086

Nearest railway station is Chamrajnagar, is 2 hrs by train from Mysore. Bus services are also available from Mysore and Chamrajnagar. Private cars and jeeps are also available to reach here.


Dashera festival of Mysore

Dashera is the most aattractive festival of Mysore. Mahanabami festival of Wadeyar kings used to be observed till 1610 AD. This festival has been changed into the Dashera festival. Tourists from all over the world come here to take part in this festival. A colorful procession is held to celebrate the victory of Devi Chamundeswari or Durga over Mahishasur is really amusing. After ornamentation in colorful dresses, the golden idol of Devi Chamundeswari is taken out for procession. In the past, the Maharaja himself took part in this procession on an elephant on the last day of the festival. The procession reaches Bani Mandap at the base of Chamundi Hill.

The venue of the festival is the huge courtyard of the palace. It is observed for ten days and nine nights. Cultural functions are integral part of the festival. The courtyard reverberates with songs and music.

Another attraction of the festival is torchlight parade. The entire city celebrates the festival with pomp. Fireworks also form a part of it. Generally, Dashera is celebrated in October.

If you plan to visit during Dashera book the hotel beforehand.

This resource is published in India study Channel in two parts

Part One

Part two

Places of interest around Jog Falls

Vatkal and Mudreshwar:

On the way, visit Vatkal. In this ancient port city you will find many temples built by the Vijayanagar kings and exhibits of Jainism.

Mudreshwar 16 km from Jog falls is another holy city. Temple and Pigeon island are worth visiting in Mudreshwar beach.

If you want to stay at Mudreshwar; you have options

RNS Yatri Niwas Ph: +91 8385 260060 DB @ INR 1500 – 5000
Naveen Beach Resort +91 8385 260415 DB @ INR 1600 - 3000


Gudavi Birds Sanctuary :

This bird sanctuary is 74 hectare marshland, migratory birds from different parts of the globe have been gathering here for more than 100 years during winters. This place started developing and recognized as bird sanctuary in 1985. You can trip this sanctuary by bus from Talguppa via Sidhapur (32 km).

Sagar:

31 km from Jog and 340 km from Mysore is Sagar. on Talguppa-Shimoga railway route, the name of the station is Sagar-Jambagaru. Every bus going to Jog passes through the commercial city Sagar.

Sagar is famous for Sandal wood and ivory industries. You may visit the government managed industry and buy articles of your choice from there. Aghoreswar Temple, 3 km from the city atIkkeri, is one of the main attractions of Sagar. It was built in the 16th century by the Nayak kings.

Hotels at sagar:

Hotel Sabhlok International
19 Gujarati Bazar, Sagar-570002, Ph: 22492716


Chandragutti:

Shimoga town is 72 km from Sagar and from Shimoga by traveling 115 km you will reach a remote village Chandragutti of Malnad.

Betele Seve, means naked worship is still a big occasion here. Every year on 20th March, millions of devotees (both male and female) rally naked to the temple of Benukomba or Matangi after holy dip in the Baroda river, 4 km from the temple.

Jog Falls - The Highest Water Falls in India

Jog falls, the highest falls in India, located at a altitude of 1500 meter on Western Ghat mountains on the river Sharavathy. Amidst of picturesque beauty this waterfall is a major tourist attraction. Four streams of Sharavathy are jumping down from a height of 292 meter here. Raja is one of the four streams. It falls straight and meets with Royar (another stream) in the midway. The other two are Rocket and Rani or White Lady. Natural beauty of the Jog falls is beyond compare. Jog falls becomes most attractive in monsoon and post monsson. Colours of the rainbow reflect in the water.

Every second Sunday of the month from 10-00 to 18-00 the dam releases water to the falls and that time it can be seen in its full glory.


A hydro-electric plant is built on Jog on the river Sharavathy. With a permit from Kamataka Power Corporation Sharavathy Valley Project can be visited. It is the first and largest of its kind in South Asia.

13 km from Jog Falls there are Lingamukhi Dam, Reservoir and Power House; and less than 1 km from here is the Mahatma Gandhi Hydro-Electric Plant. Their 3rd project is Sharavathy 10 km from here. Private vans are available to visit these places.


How to reach Jog falls:

Talguppa is the nearest railway station situated at 16 km to the east of Jog falls. Talguppa is 98 km from Shimoga, which is connected by many trains from Bangalore, Hubli and Mysore.

Bus services are also available from Mysore 371 Km, Panaji 299 Km, Shimoga 103 km, Bhadrawati 121 km, Bhatkal 74 Km, Karwar 164 km.

The nearest airport is Belgaon 251 km and Bangalore 378 km.

You can come to Jog by overnight bus journey from Bangalore or Mysore, spend a day there and may return to Bangalore and if you wish to continue your journey head to Panaji, Goa.

Hotels at Jog falls:

Jog falls Guest House:
Advance booking: Superintendent Engineer (Electrical), Mahatma Gandhi Hydro Electrical Works. Jog Falls.

PWD Inspection bungalow and Youth Hostel' are also there in Jog.

Sharavathy Tourist Home KTDC: The Falls are visible through the window of the deluxe rooms.

KTDC Hotel Mayura Gerusoppa Ph: +91 8186 344732
DB @ INR 600.

Rainbow Hotel, Kargal. DB @ INR 250 - 450, is 5 km from the falls with acceptable arrangements.

Places of interest around Jog falls

Bhadra Tiger Reserve in Karnataka

Bhadra Tiger Reserve, 24th addition to the Indian Tiger Project of 1998-99 is 30 km from Shimoga, in the Shimoga-Chikmagalur district and spread over 492.46 sq km.

Although not very large in area, the Bhadra valley has tigers and elephants, wild boar, gaur, chital, shambar. sloth bear, cheetah and various species of reptiles and birds in its tropical rain forest.

Accomodation in Bhadra Tiger Reserve:

Forest Rest House, PWD Bungalow and Circuit house are available for staying here.


How to reach Bhadra tiger reserve:
Bhadra is accessible all the year round, but the touring season is November to March. The nearest rail station is at Tarikere (20 km). The distance of Bhadra valley from Bangalore 255 km, Mangalore 218 km, Chikmagalur 38 km, Kemmanagundi 60 km. Enthusiasts may also see the Kalahasti Waterfalls, 10 km from Tarikere.

Photo courtesy: http://www.flickr.com/photos/yathin/

Kemmanagundi and Kudremukh from Chikmagalur

Krishnarajendra Hill or Kemmanagundi is a scenic hill city on the Bababudan hill in Karnataka. From Chikmagalur buses are available for Kemmanagundi (48km), via Lingadhalli. Buses also ply from Tarikere on Birur-Shimoga-Talguppa Railway to Kemmanagundi.

You will find abundance gratification here in the midst of bountiful nature. You will never get bored. The city is nestled on top of the 1448 meter hill. Around the city there are many coffee gardens and an orchid gallery. The hill is rich with iron ore, the 5 km ropeway is used for collecting iron-ore from mines looks nice from here. Cardamom also grow here in abundance


Places to stay at Kemmanagundi:

Karnataka Tourism's Tourist Cottage, Rest Houses and Tourist Homes.
Advance booking: The Secretary, Board of Management, Mysore Iron & Steel Works, Bhadravati.

Some other places to see around Chikmagalur and Kemmanagundi:

Chennakeshav Temple (built in 1150 AD) at Mable village which is 12 km to the South East of Chikmagalur.


Kudremukh

Kudremukh (6000 ft), another hill city is 90 km from Chikmagalur. It is a beautiful city with wonderful natural scenery. Kudremukh National Park (600 sq km) is a beautiful forest worth visiting . You will find macao, tiger, cheetah and gaur in this park.

Don’t forget to visit Kudremukh Iron Works.

Hotels at Kudremukh:

Travelers Bungalow; Advance booking: Assistant Engineer, PWD, Belur.

Silent valley corporate resort: Ph: +91 8263 274793
DB@INR 1500 – 1900

Hotel Chandan Ph: +91 8263 274209 DB @ INR 300 - 750

Chikmagalur - Where Coffee was first planted in India

Chikmagalur means a present or gift at the marriage ceremony of the youngest daughter. Distance of Chikmagalur from Hassan is 58, Bclur 24, Kadur 40 and Tarikere 56 km.

Through the slope of the mountain, the road leads to the top. The road is enclosed with beautiful forest. A Muslim fakir, Bababudan, brought the coffee seed from Mecca and sowed it on the slope of Bababudan hill (1829 m) in 1670 AD. That was the beginning of coffee plantation in India and Chikmagalur is one of the foremost coffee production centers of India. Central Coffee Research Institute was established here in 1925. Nestled in the slope of Babbudan hill, Chikmagalur is a district town with unending trails of natural beauty.

What you will see at Chikmagalur:

Forts, Kali Temple, Parashuram Temple, Kodandarama Temple, Iswar Temple, St Joseph Cathedral and three caves. The hills, valleys, rivers and blooming white coffee flowers in March and April add to the beauty of Chikmagalur.

Places where you can stay at Chikmagalur:

On Indira Gandhi Road:
Hotel Mount Palace, Hotel Rajmahal, Hotel Maland Paradise, Hotel Woodlands, Quality Inn, Gin Lodge

On KM Road:
The Taj Garden Retreat, The Planters Court Hotel

Near bus stand:

JP Lodge, Hotel Presidents Palace, Prakash Lodge, Asha Hotel and other hotels and lodges.

Belur, Halebid / Halebidu, Shravanabelagola

We travelled these three wonderful places in one day from Bangalore by hiring a car; but to fully appreciate and bestow proper respect to the artists who made these wonders. Here are the descriptions, some photos and important information of Belur, Halebid and Shravanbelagola. Just don’t miss them.


Belur:

Belur is a small locality in the Hasan District of Karnataka. It was the capital of the hoysala kings, at their times. Today Belur is famous for the temples at that time by them. Yagachi river, one of the important tributaries of Cauvery as beside Belur. The ancient name of Belur was Velapuri. The most important place to see here is Chennakshava Temple and was built by Vishnuvardhan in 1116 AD. Two statues, symbolizing the royal symbol of Hoysala dynasty, featuring a young man killing a tiger, is guarding entrance to the shrine. The main structure is built over a 5 ft high platform. The walls, everywhere from the base to the top including the elevations are sculptured intricately with different imagery. Here the Hoysala sculpture has reached pinnacle. We could not believe this kind of marvelous art can be made out of stone. The celestial beauties depict the lifestyles of that time showing dancing, shringar, feeding the pets, frightened by a scorpion etc. We were spellbound to see the trailing down water over a body of a statue and the intricate designs of the ornaments curved in stone on the statues.




The main pillars in the Navranga Hall are worth observing closely. Each one is different from the other and work of genius of its own. The temple is diamond shaped with entry from east, north and south. A stone platform is there at the centre of the hall where queen used to dance for the Lord Chennakeshava. The beauty of Shantalata Devi, queen of Hoysala inspired the sculptresses to make the scintillating sculptures. Don’t forget to look at the ceiling, which is also so marvelously sculpted. Outside the temple , on the Vimana you will see marvelous art works showing rows of elephants, lions, horses, birds. The other images on the wall of the temple tell you the story of different Indian epics like Ramayana, Mahabharat, Puran and Bhagvat Gita and will see statues of different God and Godesses. Like all Hoysala temples this temple is placed on a star shaped platform and the sculptures are so beautifully placed, you don’t have to strain your neck to see them. Visit the Vasudev lake, the holy lake inside the temple complex. Ratha Yatra Festival is woth visiting in this temple. Take the help of a guide to see the temple; otherwise you may miss many important aspect of this marvelous piece of art work.


How to reach Belur:

Bus service from Bangalore to Hasan 180 km is available at an interval of 15 minutes. From Hasan regular local bus service to Belur is available ( 38 Km). If you wish to travel both Belur and Halebid by car, auto. Charges for auto is approximately INR 500 – 600 and that for a car is INR 1200 – 1400.


Where to stay at Belur:

STD code: +91 8177

• Kadamba Comforts: Ph: 250355 DB @ INR 600 – 1000
• Suvarna Regency Ph: 266774 DB @ INR 700 – 1500
• Sree Krishna Ph: 263240 DB @ INR 750 – 1500
• Vishnu Regency Ph: 223011 DB @ INR 600 – 1200

If you are reading this article in any website other than in "TRAVEL INDIA" or, INDIA STUDY CHANNEL", then you are reading a copied and stolen content. Enjoy the original site here http://ourtravelindia.blogspot.com






Halebid:

17 km from Belur is Halebid, where the dynasty of Hoysala kings were extended. Beautiful roads through the villages are there both from Hasan and Belur. The road ends near a large pond Dwarsamudra. Beside this large pool is the main attraction of Halebid, Hoysaleshwar Temple. The huge compound of the temple is wonderfully decorated with colorful flowering trees and a lush gree lawn. Like all temples in this area, the star shaped temple complex is also placed on a 5 ft high platform. The roof of this temple is flat. The intricate sculptures on every inch of the temple’s wall, pillars, stairs, ceiling are still there unaffected with all their all glories and majestic artistic extravaganza. The stories of Indian epics like Ramayana, Mahabharat, and Bhagwat Gita are depicted in these images. A majestic black bull (Nandi) is placed in the Nat Mandap of the main temple. Observe the pillars, and ceiling inside the temples – I am sure you will be stunned. Unlike Belur, in this temple regular puja and prayer to the Lord Shiva is still continuing regularly. The temple remain open from sunrise to sunset. Unless you are in one day conduted tour to Belur, Halebid and Sravanbelagola, don’t miss the sunset here.




Geological museum in the temple complex is also worth visting. This museum tremain open from 10 am to 5 pm except Fridays. If you have time see the Jain temples near by namely Parshnath and Shantinath Jain Temple. These are almost as old Hosaleshwar Temple. Another small, yet another gem of art is Kedareshwar Shiva temple. This temple was built by Hoysala king Veervalla Second on 1219 AD.






How to reach Halebid:

The bus stand of Halebid is near the temple itself. Halebid is 17 Km from Belur and 30 Km from Hasan. From both these places bus service is available regularly. You can always opt for conducted tour from Hasan or, Bangalore to Belur, Halebid and Sravanbelagola.


Where to stay at Halebid / Halebidu:

STD code +91 8177


The KTDC Hotel Maurya Santhala is an excellent place to stay at Halebid, opposite to the temple complex. Ph: 273224 DB @ INR 300 – 400

If you are reading this article in any website other than in "TRAVEL INDIA" or, INDIA STUDY CHANNEL", then you are reading a copied and stolen content. Enjoy the original site here http://ourtravelindia.blogspot.com





Shravanvelagola:

A different route goes from Hasan to reach Shravanbelagola at a distance of 52 Km. It is a famous Jain pilgrim place. Jain Acharaya Bhadrabahu spread the Jain religion in this place about 2000 years back. The temple was built at that era. The green of Shravanvelagola are still maintained. Within this green ambience two barren hills Bindhyagiri and Chandragiri are proudly standing. The main attraction of Shravanbelagola, Gomateshwar Temple with 57 ft Bahubali statue is on the top of Bindhyagiri hill. You have to climb 630 stairs bare footed to reach at the top of the hill. Yes it is tiring but what you will see on top is really something worth. Throughout the whole day devotees pray and offer pujas at the feet of the huge statue of the Lord Gomateshwar. Every 12 years Maha Mandakabhishek festival held in this temple with great enthusiasm. There are few very old Jain temples and Cave temples on the top of Chandragiri hills too. Here laso you have to climb about 500 steps to reach on the top. You will not have time to see these if you are in a conducted tour.


How to reach Shravanbelagola:

Chanrayapatna is well connected by bus from Hasan ( 36 km), Bangalore ( 140 km) and Mysore (100 km). Chanrayapatna is an important place from where Shravanbelagola is 16 km. The road condition is excellent and you can reach by either bus, auto or car to Shravanbelagola from Chanrayapatna.


Where to stay at Shravanbelagola:

STD code: +91 8176


The temple committee Dharmashala at Shravanbelagola Ph: 257258

On the highway at Chanrayapatna:

• Hotel Kruthika Ph: 252425 DB @ INR 300 – 600
• Hotel Akhsata Ph: 256555 DB @ INR 300 – 500

Karnataka Tourism: http://www.karnatakatourism.org Ph: +91 80 2227 5869/ 5883.

This article is republished in India Study Channel

Photo attribution: http://www.flickr.com/photos/samuelraj/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/hrishi/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/suchana_seth/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/cirdec/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/paulcarvill/

Madikeri – An Ignored Beauty!

A small town in Western Ghat in Karnataka, Madikeri, once known as Markana, Scotland of India, at 5000 Ft enriched with lush green vegetations nestled in the lap of mountain. You will be elated by seeing orchards of oranges, cocoa, rubber, coffee and spices on your way either from Mangalore or, Mysore. The silvery springs on the way add more feathers to its crown. Though gifted so liberally with nature, Madikeri is not yet so popular among tourists.

If you are reading this article in any website other than in "TRAVEL INDIA" or, INDIA STUDY CHANNEL", then you are reading a copied and stolen content. Enjoy the original site here http://ourtravelindia.blogspot.com

What to see in Madikeri:

Gifted with abundant natural beauty, Madikeri has some other things to share too with you.

Tipu Sultan's Fort: This fort is originally built in 17^th Century by Mudduraja by mud. On 1817 AD, the king of Mysore, Tipu Sultan renovated the fort and rebuilt it with granite and named it as Jaffarabad. Two elephant's statue at north east corner and a church on south east corner add to the beauty of this fort. Panoramic view of Madikeri from this fort is wonderful

Omkareshwar Temple: Situated at the heart of Madikeri, This temple was built on 1820 AD by Lingarajendra. This temple has a combination of both Islamic and gothic style of architecture.

King's Seat (Raja's Seat): At the end of the town on a hill top is a well maintained garden and from here you can experience the nice view of the Koorg valley. Viewing sunset from this place on the far stretching blue mountain is of course a breath taking experience. In ancient times kings used to spend their evening here after their day's work, hence the name.

Abbey Falls: 6 km from Madikeri, the most popular spot to travel is Abbey falls. Kaveri river is cascading down 70 ft from the hill over a rock face is a wonderful view to witness. Car will take you up to the entrance, from where you have to step down about 500 meters to reach to the base of the falls.

Bhagamandala: Here is a temple, built in Kerala style with the shrines of different Gods. The importance of this place is due to the confluences of three rivers kaveri, Sujyoti and Kanake. This place is a holy pilgrimage for the local people. People use to offer puja ( Pinda Dan) to their passed away ancestor in this place.

When to visit Madikeri:

Almost whole year! Monsoon is usually avoided by the tourists, but it has another kind of beauty. Most of the tourists come here between November and December.

The temperature in summer is 29 degree Celsius and in winter 9 degree Celsius – a very comfortable weather throughout the year.

If you are reading this article in any website other than in "TRAVEL INDIA" or, INDIA STUDY CHANNEL", then you are reading a copied and stolen content. Enjoy the original site here http://ourtravelindia.blogspot.com

How to reach Madikeri:

Madikeri is placed on NH 48, the road between Mangalore to Mysore. From both these places you can get buses to reach Madikeri in 3 to 3 ½ hours. Madikeri is also well connected by bus from Hasan, Belur and Chikmagalur.

Where to stay at Madikeri:

KTDC Mayur Valley View: Ph: +918272 228387 DB @INR 500 – 1500

There are many other hotels and lodge around bus stand and market to fit every pocket. Off season rebate is given during monsoon in these hotels between June 15^th to September 15^th. If you wish you can visit Madikeri without staying here; but to enjoy its fully at least one night stay is recommended.

This article is reproduced in IndiaStudyChannel under
the title Madikeri – An Ignored Beauty! 

Photo attribution:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/kmadiga/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ananth/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/praveent/

Hampi - The Royal Ruins

Hampi - Badami - Bijapur is an excellent travel circuit for a week end tour from Bangalore. These three places are hot favorite of the foreign tourists. Many temples and palaces at Hampi and Badami are now in the list of UNESCO Heritage sites. There is scarcity of hotels in Hampi and Badami, so it is better to book before hand before your journey, particularly in the winter.

The nearest railway station from Hampi is Hospet 14 kms. From Bangalore, it is 364 Km can be reached by bus, or hiring a cab. Even night service deluxe busses are also available from Bangalore to Hospet.

Carvings

At Hospet a place worth to see is the dam over the Tungabhadra river, also known as TB Dam by the local people. The picture of perfect villages in India with their farming, huts can be seen on both sides of the road on your way from Hospet to Hampi. Kamalapur is the major junction you will reach after 20 mins drive. From here two different roads are going inside the Hampi.

Carvings

Hampi is place with its unique scenic beauty. The rocks of different shapes, Tungabhadra river with the typical basket boat ( Hargol), ruins of palaces and temples here and there. After lunch we went to visit the Matanga Hill. This is a Hill made by the boulders of differentshapes stacked together, unique in its natural design. steps are there to climb to the top. It was a steep climb! At the top there is ruin of Matangeshwar Mahadev Temple. From the top the total view of Hampi is exceptional.

The Royal Ruins

Hampi was the capital of Vijaynagar Empire and was built on 1336 AD by the two kings of that time Harihar and Bukka. At that time Vijaynagar was vesry strong economically and wast the hub for trade for diamonds, pearls, silk, horses etc. Many palaces, forts temples were built at that time one by one. On 1565 AD Vijaynagar lose the Talikota battle and ruining started.

Carvings

Archeological Survey Of India tried hard to protect those heritage structures, the beauty of which will amaze you even today! At least two full days are required to visit the important sites at Hampi.

Virupakshya Temple

In the afternoon we decided to see the Virupakshya temple. This temple remain open from 6.30 am to 8.30 pm. Tall and huge 9 storey Gopuram, large temple compund with beautiful carvings on the wall, colorful frescos on the ceiling - really a wonder all

Fresco on the ceiling

together. In this temple regular puja and prayer is held till today. The Gods here are Mahadev and Pampadevi.

Tungabhadra River

From the temple we came to the river bank of Tungabhadara, adjacent to the temple. For dinner we went to roof top restaurant, a nice and unique environment to have dinner.

Carvings

The next morning after breakfast we started our journey to see the rest of the places. It took abouut 7 hours to cover the main sites. our first stop was Vithala temple. On the way to the temple we saw the ruins of Vithala market. Entry fee to the temple was INR 10. We witnessed and were stunned by the excellence of the architecture of ancient times! there are 56 intricately curved pillars in the main Rangmandap (Compound) which produce musical tunes when hit.

The King's Balance

The famous chariot made of curved stones is there in the compund here. King's balance, where the king use to donate gold and precious stones of his own weight! There are few ponds (Pushkarini ) inside the compound.

The Famous Chariot

Queen's bath was the bathroom for the queens. Though from outside it look so ordinary but the artistic craftworks in arches, pillars, fountains, balconies inside the palace is wonderful.

Hazar Ram Mandir

Hazar ram mandir is also in this area we saw. The story of Ramayana is curved on the walls of the two temples here. On the wall of main temple the pictorial story of Vishnu Avatar is engraved on the black ballast stone.

The Lotus Palace

From here our next spot was Janana Mahal Royal Complex. The same ticket of Vithala temple we hadto show here to enter. This was the place where queens used to stay in ancient times. The Lotus palace amidst of a beautiful garden was the main place. A museum of Archeological Survey Of india is also here.

Hatisala

Just outside the Janana Mahal is elephant's stable (Hati Sala) with many pillars and a beautiful tower.

Pataleshwar Shiva temple is little away from this palace. It is a temple underground and through the steps we reached inside (Garva Griha). Artistic work on the stones are beautiful even in this underground temple. Baravilinga Siva temple is another temple, where there is a three meter long Shiva linga surrounded by flowing water.

The Narasimha

The famous Lakshmi Narasimha Statue of Hampi is adjacent to this. It is an amazaing 7 meter tall statue made of stone with the fierce expression, under open sky.


After seeing many other temples we reached Acchyut Roy temple in the afternoon. The nearby river bank from here is very quite and secluded. We enjoyed the fun of basket boat (Hargol) ride on Tungabhadra river from here. This kind of boat is very typical of this place.

Tungbhadra Boat Ride

At last we reached the Hemkut hill near Virupakshya temple. Though not as high as Matunga, yet a beautiful view of Hampi is visible from here. We were all tired of the journey through out the day. Sitting on the hill top and observing the sunset over the Hampi - The Royal Ruins....is a memory to remain with us.

The sunset we will remember

See All Photos of Hampi Here.

Hotel Maliggi

Hotels at Hampi:

KTDC Hotel Maurya Bhubaneshwari (+918394 241574) @ INR 1200 - 1800 DB

KTDC Hotel Maurya Vijaynagar at Hospet ( +918394 259270) @ INR 350 DB

Kirtan ( +918394 695194) @ INR 400 - 500 DB

Maliggi ( Favourite of foreign tourists) (+918394 228101) @ INR 500 - 2100 DB